# Tom Kneepkens blends living and nature at Dutch forest villa A minimalist architectural marvel nestled among trees in the Netherlands. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-07-14 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cfcbfc25-0a00-4fcf-ab95-cbc4fcea3673 ## Architecture in harmony with nature Dutch architect Tom Kneepkens created a tree-sensitive design with his completed Forest Villa MB project in Noordwijk. Full-height glazed walls and a structural timber roof system blur boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The architect's primary goal was positioning the structure respectfully within its natural environment. ## Roof designed around trees The project's most striking feature is its grid-form wooden roof system shaped according to existing tree positions. Dark solid wood beams create warmth indoors while outward extensions frame trees, merging architecture with nature. This design reinterprets traditional roofing concepts with contemporary sensitivity. ## Spatial organization The villa features rooms arranged around a central corridor with small courtyards positioned according to tree locations. The sun's daily path determined spatial planning. Private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms feature darker tones, while living spaces open completely to nature through fully glazed walls. ## Material palette The project employs a natural color scheme using dark brown timber, gray rendered surfaces, and deep green upholstery. Dark wood carpentry in the kitchen complements the roof structure, while minimalist gray exterior walls contrast with the forest greenery. Landscape design was handled by Studio Siebers. ## Balance of light and privacy Architect Kneepkens aimed to balance openness and intimacy through alternating sequences of open and enclosed spaces. The sun's annual path informed spatial organization. Wooden slatted screens shade terrace areas, offering immersive nature-living experiences while maintaining necessary privacy. ## Sustainable luxury concept Forest Villa MB represents pioneering design that combines modern luxury with sustainability. Unlike traditional Dutch architecture, the structure adapts to nature while offering minimalist aesthetics. This project serves as inspirational precedent for those seeking to design nature-integrated living spaces in urban contexts. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/07/14/tom-kneepkens-forest-villa-home-netherlands/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._